2005 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1998 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Sharan would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP) has 155 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. (113 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 490 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Sharan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | 1998 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | R | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 113 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2205 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
